Pressure on the water network in Northern Ireland is at an all-time high because of burst pipes and running taps caused by the freezing weather.

Northern Ireland Water said the significant number of bursts within private properties meant the network was currently experiencing unprecedented demand.

Omagh, Dungannon, Ballymoney, Claudy, Limavady and Dungiven were among the hardest hit areas, with residents encountering problems with their supply.

All keyholders were urged to check their premises for leaks and bursts and to take immediate action to repair them. A running tap can loose up to 3,000 gallons of water a day.

A major incident team has been set up in NI Water's head office to co-ordinate response teams and work is ongoing to find and repair burst water mains.

A spokesperson for NI Water said: "We are grateful to customers for their continued patience while we try to restore supplies across Northern Ireland and we apologise to customers for any inconvenience."

Meanwhile, emergency services chiefs have been criticised for their response to the sub-zero temperatures that have left minor roads in a dangerous state.

East Derry SDLP MLA John Dallat said questions had to be asked about how government departments implement emergency plans during the winter months.

He said: "Very few parts of the North have escaped the big freeze that has hit Ireland over the past week. Many businesses are opening after Christmas to find their water supplies cut off, while our roads are in a treacherous state.

"It would appear that whatever system is meant to be in place has once again failed everyone."